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X-WR-CALNAME:Big Sky Economic Development
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Big Sky Economic Development
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250402T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250402T093000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250528T191434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T191434Z
UID:55898-1743577200-1743586200@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:BSED April Executive Committee Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space 201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor\, Billings\, Montana\n\n\nThis meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training and Event Space. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend. \n\nApril 2025 Executive Committee Packet \n\n 
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/bsed-april-executive-committee-meeting-4/
LOCATION:Big Sky Economic Development – Venture Conference Room\, 201 N Broadway - Lower Level\, Billings\, MT\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250404T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250404T160000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T211236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T211312Z
UID:56153-1743755400-1743782400@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Boots to Business | For Veteran Beginning Farmers & Ranchers
DESCRIPTION:This full day workshop\, will aid those interested in exploring agriculture-based business ownership by leading participants through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and providing foundational knowledge required to develop a business plan. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources\, from experts across the industry\, to access start-up capital\, technical assistance\, and more. \nOpen to veterans\, service members\, and military spouses!
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/boots-to-business-for-veteran-beginning-farmers-ranchers/
LOCATION:Virtual\, MT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Ag-Reboot-25-SOCIAL-3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T090000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T211356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T211425Z
UID:56156-1744268400-1744275600@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:BSED April Board Meeting
DESCRIPTION:This meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training Room on the 2nd floor. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend. \nEDA EDC Board Packet_ April 2025
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/bsed-april-board-meeting-4/
LOCATION:Big Sky Economic Development – Venture Conference Room\, 201 N Broadway - Lower Level\, Billings\, MT\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T150000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T211459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T211536Z
UID:56159-1744290000-1744297200@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:April | Start Smart: Your Guide to Building a Business
DESCRIPTION:Dreaming of starting your own business? Make it happen with Start Smart! This workshop is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to dive into their journey. \nLearn how to build a strong foundation for your business by exploring essential topics like startup costs\, financing options\, and creating a solid business plan. You’ll leave with the knowledge\, tools\, and confidence to take the smart approach to launching your business. \nDon’t just start—Start Smart! Join us to set your entrepreneurial journey on the right track.
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/april-start-smart-your-guide-to-building-a-business/
LOCATION:Big Sky Economic Development – Venture Conference Room\, 201 N Broadway - Lower Level\, Billings\, MT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Start-Smart-Apr.-SOCIAL-1.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250411T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250411T180000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T211558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T211632Z
UID:56162-1744389000-1744394400@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Executive Director\, Steve Arveschoug Retirement Party
DESCRIPTION:RSVP HERE
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/executive-director-steve-arveschoug-retirement-party/
LOCATION:The Northern Hotel\, 19 N Broadway\, Billings\, Montana\, 59101
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250416T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250416T123000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T211844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T211910Z
UID:56168-1744803000-1744806600@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:April | What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
DESCRIPTION:Please join the Montana APEX Accelerator for a strategic VIRTUAL training on how YOU can sell your company’s products/services to federal and state agencies. \nTopics include:\n– Federal and State of MT purchasing thresholds\n– Conducting market research\n– Federal purchasing vehicles (methods)\n– Where to find opportunities and how to get automatic notices\n– Marketing your business to government agencies\n– Tips on finding subcontracting opportunities\n– Q & A session \nWho should attend?  \nAny business in any industry that is interested in developing a focused market strategy for the government segment. It is not a requirement to already be registered in SAM or eMACS to attend the training. However\, we will not be going over the registration process in this training.
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/april-what-happens-after-sam-unlock-new-business-opportunities/
LOCATION:Virtual\, MT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/April-SAM-Social.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250416T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250416T120000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T212125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T212249Z
UID:56171-1744804800-1744804800@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Scaling Montana Speaker Series: Leadership Transitions in High-Growth Tech Companies
DESCRIPTION:Join us on April 16 at noon for the next Scaling Montana Speaker Series\, featuring Pete Roos\, Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Bridger Photonics\, and the company’s new CEO\, Ben Little. This session will explore how and when a company should transition leadership during a scale-up phase\, particularly in deep-tech and engineering-driven organizations. They will offer a first-hand account from a company who is actively undergoing the transition. \nBridger Photonics has experienced record growth in the methane detection industry\, prompting a strategic leadership shift to support its next stage of expansion. Pete and Ben will provide insights for technical founders and entrepreneurs on: \n\nWhy leadership transitions can be critical for scaling a technology company\nHow founders can decide when to bring in a new CEO\nWhat skills are needed at different phases of growth\nLessons learned from the early stages of Bridger Photonics leadership’ transition\n\nThis discussion will be especially valuable for founders\, technical leaders\, and entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of scaling a company beyond its early stages. \nEvent Details\nDate: April 16\, 2025\nTime: 12:00 PM\nSpeakers: \n\nPete Roos\, Founder & Chief Innovation Officer\, Bridger Photonics\nBen Little\, CEO\, Bridger Photonics\n\nDon’t miss this opportunity to hear from a local leader in photonics as they transition leadership and move into a new era for the company.
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/scaling-montana-speaker-series-leadership-transitions-in-high-growth-tech-companies/
LOCATION:Big Sky Economic Development\, 201 North Broadway Ave\, Billings\, MT\, 59101\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LinkedIn-Social-Card-7.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250417T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250417T170000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T212312Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T212339Z
UID:56175-1744902000-1744909200@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:2025 Annual Better off in Billings Event
DESCRIPTION:RSVP!\nAbout the event!\nBillings is Montana’s City\, where urban meets rural and residents experience the convenience of city amenities while enjoying a suburban lifestyle. Better Off in Billings is our unified voice to share our story and culture\, and an economic talent attraction and retention tool designed to elevate our community and its people. \nJoin us for an afternoon of great conversations\, big ideas\, and local inspiration! Grab a drink\, connect with fellow community champions\, and hear from dynamic speakers shaping the future of Billings. \nWhat to Expect:\nEngaging Panel Discussions – From booming development projects to outdoor recreation and workforce growth\, our panelists will dive into what’s next for Billings.\nFireside Chat – Hear firsthand from a newcomer on why they chose Billings as their home.\nSpace2Place – We will announce our 2025 Space2Place Grant award recipients. \nThis event is for everyone—whether you’re a lifelong Billings local\, a newcomer\, or just curious about why you’re Better Off in Billings! \n 
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/2025-annual-better-off-in-billings-event/
LOCATION:Craft Local\, 2501 Montana Ave\, Billings\, MT\, 59101
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/BOIB-2025-SOCIAL-2.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250424T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250424T123000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T212441Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T212505Z
UID:56178-1745492400-1745497800@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Navigating Government Contracts: GSA Strategies for Success
DESCRIPTION:Join the Montana APEX Accelerator and (sponsors/partnerships?) for an exclusive online training event designed to help businesses navigate federal procurement opportunities. \nFeatured Speaker: Eric Weisman\, Small Business Specialist for GSA Region 8 \nGain essential insights into how the General Services Administration (GSA) operates and how your business can successfully secure government contracts. \nWhy Attend? \n-Across 11 regions\, the GSA:\n-Buys\, Sells\, Leases and Manages property.\n-Oversee facilities\, construction\, Human Capital\, training.\n-Procures: Industrial Products and Services\, Information Technology\, Office Management\, as well as Security and Protection\, Transportation and Logistics; and Travel and Lodging.\n-Manages: Government Credit Cards\, Fleet Services\, OASIS Program\, Ability ONE Partnership\, and Emergency Acquisition Basic Ordering Agreements. \nWhat You’ll Learn: -Navigating the GSA contracting process.\n-Opportunities in the Government Industrial Base (GIB).\n-Key GSA programs\, including:\n-Multiple Award Schedules\n-OASIS\n-Ability ONE Partnership\n-Emergency Acquisition Basic Ordering Agreements. \nWho Should Attend? ALL Montana-based businesses\, entrepreneurs\, contractors\, industry professionals\, and economic development organizations looking to understand and leverage GSA opportunities to expand their business in the federal marketplace. This is a unique training event! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to gain expert insights and position your small business for success in government contracting with the GSA.
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/navigating-government-contracts-gsa-strategies-for-success/
LOCATION:Virtual\, MT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Missoula-GSA-SOCIAL-1.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250429T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250429T120000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T212529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T212603Z
UID:56181-1745922600-1745928000@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Building a Stronger Team: Talent Recruitment (Session 1)
DESCRIPTION:In this session\, we will equip small business leaders and hiring managers with the tools and strategies they need to attract and retain top talent despite resource constraints. This session will focus on how to build an attractive employer brand and resources to tap into for maximum impact on recruitment efforts. It’s designed to be practical\, hands-on\, and focused on providing actionable insights to immediately improve recruitment efforts. \n  \n\nIntroduction | Billings Talent Attraction & Retention Research Project Takeaways | Shaye Metcalf & Marcell Bruski (30 minutes)  \n\n\nDCI research deep dive \n\n\nBOIB Recruiter Toolkit exploration \n\n\nCase Study #1| Jeanne Manske| Billings Clinic-Physician Recruitment Sourcing & Strategy Coordinator (15 Minutes) \n\n\nCase Study #2 | Katie Whitmoyer | Woods Powr Grip & Flex Family Health (15 minutes) \n\n\nRapid Fire Panel Questions | Katie\, Cole & Jeanne| Kayla Vokral (15 minutes) \n\n\nQ & A (15 minutes) 
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/building-a-stronger-team-talent-recruitment-session-1/
LOCATION:Big Sky Economic Development – Venture Conference Room\, 201 N Broadway - Lower Level\, Billings\, MT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Talent-Recruitment-1-SOCIAL-1.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250430T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250430T110000
DTSTAMP:20260517T080345
CREATED:20250530T212633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T212700Z
UID:56184-1746007200-1746010800@bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org
SUMMARY:Get your Local Business on Google Search and Maps
DESCRIPTION:Showing up when customers are searching online is more important than ever. Ensure customers can find accurate\, updated information about your local business on Google Search and Google Maps\, no matter\nwhich device they use. In this workshop\, you will learn how to create and manage a Google Business Profile from start to finish. \nIn this session we’ll show you how to: \n\nCreate or claim your Google Business Profile\nManage your business info across Google Search and Maps\nUse your Business Profile to connect with potential customers\n\nThis workshop is $10 to attend. \nWorkshop Facilitated by Girl Geek Communications in partnership with Grow with Google.
URL:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/event/get-your-local-business-on-google-search-and-maps/
LOCATION:Stillwater County Ace Civic Center\, 16 Sheep Dip Rd.\, Columbus\, MT\, 59019\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SBDC-Google-SOCIAL.png
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